The 3 series E36 was introduced at the end of 1990. The first available models were the 316i, 318i, 320i and 325i. 

The 316i was not available in the USA. The six cylinder models all had a new 24-valve engine, taken from the E34 5 Series.

In 1991, the 325td (Turbo Diesel) was released in Europe and other countries. 

In 1992, the new E36 Coupe was introduced. There were 3 models available; the 318is, 320i and 325i. The 318is featured a 16-valve, four-cylinder engine. 

In 1993, the E36 Convertible was finally released. The M40 four-cylinder was replaced with a new, M43 four-cylinder engine. The 316i Coupe and the 325tds Sedan were also released. 

In 1994, three E36 Compacts were introduced; the models 316i, 318ti, and the 318tds, with a four-cylinder diesel engine. The 316i and 318tds models were not available in the USA.

In 1995, the Touring or Sport Wagon model was introduced. The Touring was available as the 318i, 320i, 328i, 318tds and 325tds models. Only the 320i and 328i models were imported to the USA.

In 1996, a 318is Sedan was introduced, and finally, in 1997, a 316i Touring and a 323ti Compact were released. The E36 Convertible, the last of the model run, was discontinued in 1999.

BMW 3 Series: Service Manual: 1992-1998
Robert Bentley / Paperback / Robert Bentley Publishers / May 1999

This Bentley Manual is the only comprehensive, single source of service information and specifications available for BMW 3-Series cars from 1992-1998. Whether you're a professional technician or a do-it-yourself BMW owner, this manual will help you understand, maintain, and repair every system on 3-Series cars.